Aotearoa: shift from volume- to values-based food production
The 2021 Te Hono summit saw numerous discussions about shifting NZ exports from volume to a values-based approach. Māori businesses showcased opportunities for environmental and economic sustainability.
There are challenges in creating premium ingredients and products with health benefits. This is especially true when producing for global markets. Te Ao Māori (The Māori World) is entirely unique to Aotearoa and can be invaluable for Māori who want to create standout foods. Presenters at Te Hono highlighted challenges in protecting mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) in product development.
Future Foods Catalyst researchers attended Te Hono
Dr Meika Foster and Summer Wright are our Māori Future Food Catalyst (FFC) researchers who attended the summit. Meika gave an overview of what future foods can look like for Aotearoa. Summer shared her ideas and the pathway to her PhD: She will focus her research on Māori businesses and consumer relationships with plant-based products.
Te Hono has a values-based focus
Te Hono is a partnership between the leaders of Aotearoa New Zealand’s
food & fibre companies
Iwi
government agencies
Te Hono values strong relationships between land and people. Their vision is for food and fibre that is values-based while at the same time producing high-value products and services.
The 2021 summit in Taranaki saw many very accomplished leaders in the agriculture and technology industries share their accomplishments and challenges in creating high-value foods.
Summer Wright, 30 June 2021